Turkey, back after 24-year World Cup absence, faces Australia in Group D opener

A long-awaited return

Turkey’s men’s national team last appeared at a World Cup in 2002, when it finished third. After failing to qualify for five consecutive tournaments, coach Vincenzo Montella’s squad finally ends that drought on Saturday in Vancouver. The emotions are running high.

This is the day before something that we have been waiting for 24 years, we are very emotional and we trust we are going to do well.

The current generation, led by Inter Milan midfielder Calhanoglu, carries no blame for the past. Montella told his players they can instead be proud to be the group that brought Turkey back to the biggest stage.

The pre-match banter

Calhanoglu set the tone on Friday, predicting a dominant performance.

I think we will dominate the game, because we have more qualities and a more talented team.

Australia midfielder Aiden O’Neill dismissed the remark.

He’s allowed to have his own opinion. We’ve got quality players on our team, too, so we’re ready.

Coach Tony Popovic, whose red-tinged eyes hinted at long hours of preparation, framed the slight as fuel.

What we can do is try and spoil the party, and that’s our challenge tomorrow, and that’s what we aim to do.

Australia’s quiet confidence

The Socceroos have qualified for six straight World Cups and reached the round of 16 in Qatar in 2022, where they lost to eventual champions Argentina. Popovic acknowledged that outside expectations are low but insisted his team’s self-belief is intact. Striker Mohamed Toure, a 22-year-old Norwich City prospect, missed Wednesday training with a runny nose but is fully fit. The coach confirmed every player is available. Australia lacks a classic target man and depth in midfield but will lean on resilience and discipline.

Young stars and tactical tension

Turkey’s squad features two of the tournament’s most exciting young attackers, Arda Guler and Kenan Yildiz, though Yildiz is doubtful for the opener. Montella praised Australia’s organisation, calling them a balanced, disciplined side that will defend deep in a compact block. The Italian manager wants his players to stay free of emotional weight, believing that is when Turkey plays its best. Captain Mat Ryan anchors an Australian defence that will try to contain Turkey’s creative midfield.

The Group D stage

The match kicks off at BC Place in Vancouver, with Turkey installed as favourites (moneyline -120) and Australia the underdog (+340). The draw pays +250. Group D also includes co-hosts United States and 2010 quarter-finalists Paraguay, making a strong start essential. In Australia the game begins on Sunday AEST; in the United States coverage starts at 12 a.m. ET on Fox Sports 1 and Fubo.